A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Palma de Mallorca vs. Cambridge for Nightlife, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Palma de Mallorca

Palma de Mallorca is a stunning, cultural, and historic island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Cambridge

Cambridge is a beautiful, collegiate, and scholarly university town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

Palma de Mallorca and Cambridge: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Palma de Mallorca than Cambridge, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Palma de Mallorca is more popular for its nightlife, music, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and hiking, while Cambridge is known for its museums, shopping, and small town charm. Palma de Mallorca is more touristy than Cambridge and is known for its strikingly blue waters, sandy beaches, all-inclusive resorts, and vibrant towns. It is also home to the turquoise water and white sand beaches. Cambridge is popular for its iconic university and the many colleges associated with it.

the turquoise water and white sand beaches
The turquoise water and white sand beaches

How is Palma de Mallorca different from Cambridge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cambridge and Palma de Mallorca. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Cambridge is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Cambridge can be an interesting and educational experience. The history is rich and impressive in this university town. There are countless museums and architectural sights that you should check out. High on the list are the Cambridge University buildings, The Fitzwilliam Museum, the Bridge of Sighs, The Round Church, and many more.

Palma de Mallorca does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Both Palma de Mallorca and Cambridge offer a number of great restaurants to choose from.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Palma de Mallorca. Food here is centered around pork, fish, and vegetables. It is flavored with garlic and olive oil and it offers that feeling of comfort that comes with home cooking.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Cambridge. You'll find college pubs, local eateries, and fine dining, all in one charming town. Enjoy afternoon tea or fish chips at one of the many local restaurants around town.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge Better for Nightlife?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Palma de Mallorca is a must-visit destination for nightlife. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for nightlife and partying.

Palma de Mallorca is a world class party destination. Head to Magaluf and Palma for the most popular places.

Cambridge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife scene is centered around the student culture and you'll find many university pubs, some lively clubs, theaters, and wine bars around town. Whether you're looking for a chill night with friends or a more wild experience, there are options in Cambridge.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge Better for Music?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Palma de Mallorca is an excellent place to visit for live music. However, Cambridge is not a live music destination.

Whether you like big venues or smaller artists, Palma de Mallorca has diverse options. Live concerts, international DJs, and a diverse range of styles have put the island's music scene on the map.

Cambridge is not a live music destination.


Is Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge Better for Resorts?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Palma de Mallorca is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Cambridge is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Palma de Mallorca to choose from. Top resorts on the island include The St Regis Mardavall, Viva Cala Mesquida Resort and Spa, and Nixe Palace Hotel.

Cambridge is not a resort destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Cambridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Palma de Mallorca. Head to Cala Santanyi on the south side of the island for the best snorkeling. For scuba diving, National Park of Cabrera is one of the most popular spots.

Cambridge is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge Better for Beaches?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Palma de Mallorca is a must-visit destination for its beaches. However, Cambridge is not a beach destination.

Palma de Mallorca offers stunning beaches that attract visitors from around the world. The island is lined with sandy beaches and rocky coves, which have contributed to it becoming one of Europe's most popular beach destinations.

Cambridge is not a beach destination.


Is Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge Better for its Old Town?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for its historic old town. However, Cambridge does not have a historic old town.

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for visiting its old town. Alcudia is the best old town on the island. It has cobblestone streets and historic walls that give it charm and history.

Cambridge does not have a historic old town.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge Better for Hiking?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Palma de Mallorca is a good destination for its hiking trails. However, Cambridge is not a hiking destination.

Palma de Mallorca offers some nice hiking trails. There are many beautiful hikes along the water and through the countryside that offer beautiful views and pass by quaint towns.

Cambridge is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Cambridge is an excellent place to visit for shopping. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Cambridge. The town offers independent boutique shops, local brands, and a 7 day a week market. The three main shopping areas in town are The Grafton, Lion Yard and Grand Arcade.

Palma de Mallorca offers some nice shopping areas. Head to Palma for some of the areas best shopping.


Is Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge Better for Families?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Palma de Mallorca is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Palma de Mallorca is a very family-friendly destination. The beaches are large and sandy with beautiful blue waters. There's also many activities that both adults and kids can enjoy around the island including waterparks, aquariums, and amusement areas.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cambridge. Kids will enjoy following the Treasure Trail, or climbing to the top of the Great St Mary’s Tower. Punting is another iconic experience. On a rainy day, head to the Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences, the Museum of Zoology, or the Cambridge Science Centre.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge Better for Couples?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Cambridge is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Cambridge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The quaint town is fun to explore as a couple. Try your hand at punting or take a tour of one of the colleges. You can also enjoy a picnic in the botanical gardens or have tea at the Orchard Tea Garden.

Palma de Mallorca makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. With beautiful beaches and a fun Spanish flare, Mallorca makes for a memorable honeymoon.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Palma de Mallorca is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cambridge is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Palma de Mallorca is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There is no shortage of hostels in Mallorca so it's easy to find an affordable place to stay and a young crowd to hang out with.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Cambridge. With a handful of hostels and a vibrant student population, the town makes for a fun stop on your backpacking trip.


Is Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge Better for Students?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Cambridge is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

Cambridge is a great destination for students. The town is home to more than 25,000 students who come from 140 different countries. This is one of the most iconic university towns in the world, and there's really no better place for students to visit or reside.

Palma de Mallorca is not popular with students.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Visitors will find good public transit in both Palma de Mallorca and Cambridge.

Palma de Mallorca has some public transit options. There is an efficient bus system that can get you around the island, but trips are less frequent on weekends. Pick up the Intermodal Card which can get you from town to town.

You'll find some public transit in Cambridge, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a regional bus service that operates through town.

Is Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge a more walkable city?

Palma de Mallorca
Cambridge

Cambridge is a must-visit destination for its walkability. Also, Palma de Mallorca is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Cambridge. Walking is the best way to explore the town.

Palma de Mallorca is a somewhat walkable place. It is a larger island that is not walkable, but Palma is generally a walkable area. If you stay in the central area you should be fine to explore on foot but if you want to get out into more rural areas, you'll need access to some type of transportation.


For even more information, also check out Is Palma de Mallorca Worth Visiting? and Is Cambridge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cambridge or Palma de Mallorca?

How long in Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Palma de Mallorca than Cambridge because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Palma de Mallorca, and 1-2 days is enough time in Cambridge.

Families should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca than Cambridge. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Palma de Mallorca, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palma de Mallorca than Cambridge if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Palma de Mallorca.


  • How many days in Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge? Ideal Length of Stay
    Palma de Mallorca 3-5 
    Cambridge 1-2

One day in Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge?

You'll find nightlife and live music around the island of Palma de Mallorca. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With shopping and museums around the destination of Cambridge, there's plenty to do. One day is often enough time to do most activities. It offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge?

You'll find live music and food around the cultural destination of Palma de Mallorca. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With museums and nightlife around the historic university town of Cambridge, there's plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here.

Five days in Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the beautiful island of Palma de Mallorca. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the collegiate destination of Cambridge. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.


A week in Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge?

Palma de Mallorca is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Cambridge is a popular choice for travelers. This university town offers a variety of activities to choose from. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Spain, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, The Best 3-Day Tours from London, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from London.


Which place is cheaper, Cambridge or Palma de Mallorca?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Palma de Mallorca is €139, while the average daily cost in Cambridge is €156. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Palma de Mallorca and Cambridge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Palma de Mallorca 69
    Cambridge 84
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Palma de Mallorca 138
    Cambridge 168
Compare Hotels in Palma de Mallorca and Cambridge

Looking for a hotel in Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Palma de Mallorca


Hotels in Cambridge


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Palma de Mallorca Hotel Prices and Cambridge Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Palma de Mallorca 25
    Cambridge 28
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Palma de Mallorca

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Palma de Mallorca are as follows:


  • Taxi Ride
    6.80
  • Bus Ride
    1.25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palma de Mallorca

Also for Palma de Mallorca, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Transfer from Palma de Mallorca Port to Mallorca Airport (PMI): $35
  • Transfer from Palma de Mallorca Airport to Palma de Mallorca Port: $35
  • Round Trip Transfer from/to Palma Aquarium: $29
  • Private transfer from Alcúdia to Mallorca Airport: $175
  • Private Transfers from Palma to Palme de Mallorca Airport PMI in Business Car: $79
  • Private Transfer from Peguera to Mallorca airport (PMI): $96
  • Private Transfer from Palma de Mallorca city to Mallorca airport (PMI): $59
  • Private Transfer from Mallorca airport (PMI) to Soller : $104
  • Private Transfer from Mallorca airport (PMI) to Pollensa: $144
  • Private Transfer from Mallorca airport (PMI) to Peguera : $96
  • Private Transfer from Mallorca airport (PMI) to Palma de Mallorca city: $59
  • Private Transfer from Mallorca airport (PMI) to Magaluf: $73

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cambridge

Also for Cambridge, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer Heathrow To Cambridge: $175

Is it cheaper to fly into Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge?

Prices for flights to both Cambridge and Palma de Mallorca change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Palma de Mallorca 45
    Cambridge 48
Typical Food Prices in Palma de Mallorca

For Palma de Mallorca, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:


  • Soda
    2.50

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Palma de Mallorca

For Palma de Mallorca, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Mallorca Evening Tour: Horseback Riding, Dinner and Dance: $107
  • Spanish Cooking Experience in Mallorca: $109
  • The Award-Winning PRIVATE Food Tour of Mallorca: The 10 Tastings: $130
  • Mediterranean cooking experience in nature: $131
  • 4-Hour Market Visit and Traditional Cooking Workshop in Palma: $147
  • Sailboat Dinner and Movie Night: $650

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Palma de Mallorca 34
    Cambridge 26

Tours and Activities in Palma de Mallorca

For Palma de Mallorca, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hour Deluxe Segway Tour from Palma: $83
  • 1 Hour of Adrenaline and Speedboat adventure in Alcúdia: $57
  • 1.5 H Electric Kick-Scooter Tour: $49
  • 1H Self-Guided Electric Scooter Tour around Palma de Mallorca: $22
  • 2-Hour Guided Buggie Tour of Mallorca: $87
  • 2hrs Snorkeling Experience in Sa Foradada: $47
  • 3 Hour Slingshot Sunset Tour from Paguera: $129
  • 3 Hours Quad Adventure in Mallorca: $104
  • 3 hours quad tour from Paguera: $163
  • 4-Hour Catamaran Tour including Tapas: $108
  • 4-Hour Private Gourmet Experience in Traditional Mallorcan Finca: $120
  • 5-Hour Catamaran Tour including BBQ: $131

Tours and Activities in Cambridge

For Cambridge, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Guided Historic Walking Tour of Cambridge with Guide and Peek: $25
  • A Guided Public Tour of Historic Cambridge: $32
  • Cambridge - Shared Punting Tour: $13
  • Cambridge Highlights Walking Tour by Cantab Tours: $25
  • Cambridge Instagram Self-Guided Tour - Top Photo Spots: $6.35
  • Cambridge Science Tour : $32
  • Cambridge's History & Secrets with Self-Guided Walking Tours: $32
  • Cambridge’s Colleges and Classic Sights: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • 2-Hour Private University Walking Tour: $94
  • Adventure Through Cross-Disciplinary Revolutions: $22
  • Chauffeured Punting Tour: $62
  • Chinese University Student-Guided Walking Tour: $40

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Palma de Mallorca 29
    Cambridge 27
Typical Alcohol Prices in Palma de Mallorca

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Palma de Mallorca are as follows:


  • Coffee
    3.10

Sample the Local Flavors in Palma de Mallorca

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Palma de Mallorca:

  • Wine tasting with wines from the smallest wineries in Mallorca: $43
  • Guided tour of the Winery with wine tasting, Vineyard and much more!: $49
  • Gourmet Tapas and Wine Tour: $53
  • Gourmet Tapas and Wine Tour in Palma de Mallorca : $54
  • Gastronomic Mallorquin Wine Tasting & local delicacies: $71
  • Mallorca Wine Tasting: $74
  • Wine Tasting Experience with Mallorcan Delights in Alcudia: $87
  • Sa Clasta Mallorca Wine Tours: $158
  • Mallorca Bodega & Olive Tour with Wine Tasting (full day): $162


When comparing the travel costs between Palma de Mallorca and Cambridge, we can see that Cambridge is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Palma de Mallorca Expensive? and Is Cambridge Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Palma de Mallorca or Cambridge?

Palma de Mallorca has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Cambridge. When comparing the sizes of Palma de Mallorca and Cambridge, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.